Beef Tamales
These savory beef tamales offer a taste of classic Mexican-Spanish cuisine, updated for the modern kitchen. The rich, flavorful filling of ground beef and chile sauce is encased in a tender cornmeal masa, then steamed to perfection. This comforting dish is perfect for a family meal or a festive gathering, delivering a satisfying and authentic experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground beef (Quantity estimated (not specified in original recipe))
- 1 cup Chile sauce No. 2 (Quantity estimated (not specified in original recipe))
- 1 cup Butter (or vegetable shortening) (Originally lard. Substituted with butter for modern preference. Can also use vegetable shortening for similar texture.)
- 4 cups Cornmeal or masa (Quantity estimated (not specified in original recipe))
- 2 cups Water (Quantity estimated (not specified in original recipe))
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Quantity estimated (not specified in original recipe))
- 1/4 cup Olives (Quantity estimated (not specified in original recipe))
- 1/4 cup Raisins (Quantity estimated (not specified in original recipe))
Instructions
- 1In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat. Add the chile sauce and cook until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
- 2In a bowl, pour boiling water over the cornmeal or masa. Add salt to taste. Add the butter (or vegetable shortening) and mix well. If desired, add olives and raisins.
- 3Spread a layer of masa on a corn husk. Add a spoonful of the beef filling. Fold the ends of the husk over and press flat. Steam the tamales for about 30 minutes, or until the masa is firm and cooked through.